Visit The Marvelous Capital: 9 Things To Do In Brasilia, Brazil

1. Praça dos Três Poderes

Praça dos Três Poderes, which means The Three Powers Square in English, is where you will see some of the most important buildings in the city. Go for a walk and be captivated by the unique features of the Palacio do Planato, the National Congress, and the Supreme Court, all of which were designed by famous architect Oscar Niemeyer. If you visit on a Sunday, then you can take a guided tour of Palacio do Planato. The square is also home to the awe-inspiring bronze sculpture called Os Candagos. It pays tribute to the workers who were responsible in establishing the city.

Praça dos Três Poderes

Address: Praça dos Três Poderes - Brasilia, Federal District, 70100-000, Brazil

2. Santuario Dom Bosco

Santuario Dom Bosco was built in 1963 in honor of the city’s patron saint. After admiring the exteriors, head inside and let the floor-to-ceiling windows with blue filters leave you in awe. When you look up, prepare to be enthralled by the crystal chandelier made by beloved local architect Alvimar Moreira. You will also see the impressive Don Bosco and Nossa Senhora Auxiliadora statues, the marble altar, and the crucifix carved from cedar tree.

Santuario Dom Bosco

Address: St. de Habitações Individuais Geminadas Sul 702 - Brasília, DF, 70297-400, Brazil

3. Torre de TV

The 218-meter (715 feet) Torre de TV was designed by renowned architect Lucio Costa, and it’s considered to be the highest point in Brasilia. After marveling at the design, make your way to the top for a panoramic view of the city. Whether it is morning, afternoon, or evening, you can expect the sights to be absolutely enthralling. Night time is also your opportunity to witness an awe-inspiring light and fountain show. On weekends and holidays, the tower’s base hosts a fair where you can buy delicious local food and different types of precious handicrafts. Some food stalls remain open for the rest of the week.

Torre de TV

Address: Eixo Monumental, s/n - Jardim Burle Marx, Brasília - DF, 70297-400, Brazil

4. Memorial JK

Memorial JK was built in September 1981 to commemorate the life of Juscelino Kubitschek, Brazil’s former president and the founder of Brasilia. It contains an imposing statue of the renowned politician and his burial site, which is covered with stained glass designed by esteemed artist Marianne Peretti. You will also see Kubitschek’s personal library with over 3,000 books and photos detailing the rich history of the city. This site is often regarded as one of Brasilia’s most significant monuments.

Memorial JK

Address: Zona Cívico-Administrativa Eixo Monumental - Lado Oeste, Brasília - DF, 70070-300, Brazil

Website: Memorial JK (Portuguese Website)

5. Cathedral of Brasilia

This hyperboloid building was completed in May of 1970, and it’s another architectural masterpiece by Oscar Niemeyer. The Cathedral of Brasilia promises to captivate you with its 16 concrete columns, which resembles hands reaching out to heaven. Inside, you will definitely be astounded by not only the stained glass roof, but also the sculptures of three flying angels, the oval baptistery, and the Shroud of Turin replica. With over 1 million visitors every year, the cathedral is undoubtedly one of the most popular sites in the city.

Cathedral of Brasilia

Address: Esplanada dos Ministérios lote 12 - Brasília, DF, 70050-000, Brazil

Website: Cathedral of Brasilia (Portuguese Website)

6. Parque Nacional de Brasília

Apart from the magnificent buildings, Brasilia is also famous for its natural wonders. One place you should check out is the 60,000-acre (279,233,093 square meters) Parque Nacional de Brasilia. Upon arrival, you can trek through the forest for an up-close look at picturesque Cerrado trees and many other local plants. Along the way, there’s a huge chance of you spotting amazing animals such as anteaters, pampas deer, black howler monkeys, and otters. Another highlight of the park is the natural pools, all of which are believed to have therapeutic waters. Go for a swim and take in the beauty of the lush surroundings.

Parque Nacional de Brasília

Address: Sman - Zona Industrial, Brasília - DF, 70635-800, Brazil

Facebook: Parque Nacional de Brasília (Portuguese Page)

7. Paranoa Lake

Whether you just want to relax or enjoy fun activities, Paranoa Lake is definitely the place to be. You can go for a stroll or sit on one of the benches and admire the sunset and city views. The peaceful atmosphere will put a smile on your face as well. If you want a more adventurous experience, then you can go swimming, snorkeling, fishing, wakeboarding, or windsurfing. There are also plenty of bars and restaurants on the shore, which is about 80 kilometers (50 miles) long. Up to now, the artificial lake continues to attract both locals and tourists.

Paranoa Lake

Address: Paranoá Lake, Brasilia - Federal District, 70297-400, Brazil

8. Palacio da Alvorada

Palacio da Alvorada serves as the official residence of Brazil’s president, and it’s another perfect representation of modernist architecture. Keep in mind that you’re not allowed to go inside the building, but you can take photos or just admire its design from the main gate. Prepare to be fascinated by the glass exteriors and the marble columns, which are considered as the symbol of the city. The structure is officially part of the country’s list of National Historic Heritage Sites, so make sure you don’t miss it.

Palacio da Alvorada

Address: Palacio da Alvorada - Brasília, DF, 70150-000, Brazil

9. Memorial dos Povos Indígenas

Get to know more about Brazil’s indigenous culture in this museum, which was also designed by Oscar Niemeyer. Memorial dos Povos Indígenas’ spiral shape was inspired by the “maloca”, the traditional house of the tribe of Yanomami. After taking in the beauty of the architecture, come inside to see its wide collection of masks, musical instruments, wooden benches, utensils, and many other items related to different ethnic groups. The museum houses beautiful artworks created by indigenous artists as well. If you’re in luck, you may have a chance to witness one of the events where the tribe members are present.

Memorial dos Povos Indígenas

Address: Zona Cívico-Administrativa - Brasília, DF, 70297-400, Brazil

Take a trip to Brasilia now

If you’re a movie lover and decided to visit the city in late October or early November, then don’t miss the Cinema Festival. It’s where you can catch early screenings of local mainstream and independent films. There’s also the equally exciting Porão do Rock, which is held during the summer. The event features some of the best bands performing in different stages.

So now that you’re familiar with all of the activities, it’s time to start your epic journey. Come to Brasilia and explore its many wonders. Make sure you bring your family or friends too.